Dr. Jazbia Shirin

The recent incident in Parachinar has once again sparked sectarian violence in the Kurram district of Pakistan. This tragic event is part of the ongoing tension between the Shia and Sunni communities, with land disputes and other regional issues adding fuel to the fire. According to reports, at least 36 people have been killed and 162 injured, with the majority of the victims being from the Shia community.

The attacks have been carried out by extremist groups, including the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), which has been attempting to establish its presence in the region for decades, using sectarian violence for their nefarious purposes. This violence has worsened the already fragile situation in the area, where both government actions and the traditional Jirga system have failed to bring peace.

The historical significance of Parachinar and its geographical location are also important aspects of this conflict, as it is situated near the Afghanistan border and has long been a hotspot for various group conflicts. The government needs to take this issue seriously to not only ensure the protection of the affected community but also to take action against the groups exacerbating these conflicts.

Relatives of the victims and local leaders are calling for immediate action, but the government’s response has been slow and ineffective. Human rights organizations have also described the incident as a form of genocide and stressed the need for global attention.

The solution to this issue cannot be achieved solely through the use of force; it is essential to promote sectarian harmony and provide platforms where people can resolve their disputes peacefully. For a country like Pakistan, it is crucial to ensure the protection of its citizens and work on eliminating these issues on a sustained basis.

Parachinar, the capital of the Kurram tribal district in Pakistan, holds a unique position due to its geographical importance and historical background. It is located near the Afghanistan border and, because of its Shia-majority population, has always been a target for conflicts and attacks. Parachinar has long suffered from sectarian violence, attacks by extremist groups, and local tribal disputes, forcing it to endure continuous instability.

Looking at the history of Parachinar, the city has been plagued by armed clashes, land disputes, and sectarian tensions for several decades. During the 1980s and 1990s, sectarian attacks were also witnessed here, and from 2007 to 2012, Parachinar was besieged by armed extremists, causing a shortage of food, medicine, and other essential services for the Shia community. During this period, hundreds of people were killed, and thousands were displaced.

The current situation in Parachinar is as fragile as it has ever been. In the recent clashes, extremists targeted the Shia community, resulting in dozens of deaths and many injuries. These attacks are not only based on sectarianism but are also carried out for control over Parachinar’s strategic location and resources. The presence of Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan and other extremist groups has made the region even more dangerous, as these groups use sectarianism to further their own interests.

The people of Parachinar have always sacrificed for the peace and stability of Pakistan, but the government’s delayed response in addressing their problems has persisted. Local residents continue to suffer from insecurity due to ongoing attacks and inadequate government action. The recent events once again highlight the need for effective measures by the government and the international community to resolve these issues so that the people of Parachinar can live a safe and peaceful life.

The continuous attacks on Parachinar by terrorists are not mere coincidences but reflect a deep conspiracy rooted in sectarian division, geographical significance, and the selfishness of extremist groups. This city has long been a target for extremist groups because of its Shia-majority population, which they exploit to increase their power through religious division. Parachinar’s strategic location, being near the Afghanistan border, makes it even more sensitive and prone to conflicts.                         This terrorism is, in fact, a conspiracy that not only fuels religious differences but also destroys peace and order in the region. Extremist groups like the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and other military organizations target Parachinar because its people have always remained united for the protection of their religious beliefs and community. Through such attacks, terrorists not only cause loss of life but also try to undermine the collective courage and unity of the region.

It is also possible that the attacks are a proxy war between regional powers, where different groups are being used against each other to impose their will. The people of Parachinar have always tried to stand against terrorism, but they do not receive the support from the government that they need.

This entire situation is heartbreaking. One wonders when this will end. What must the families of those who have lost their lives in these attacks be going through?

Words fall short to express this grief and pain:

How long will the blood keep flowing?

How long will this land keep screaming?

How long will these children remain orphans?

How long will mothers wear the dress of widows?

We all must stand together against this cruelty. Both the government and the public must unite and raise their voices against these oppressors. Our prayers are with the martyrs of Parachinar and their families. May Allah keep us safe from such incidents.

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, especially areas like Parachinar, has always been a target of terrorism and extremism. There are several reasons for this, including the region’s geographical position, its border with Afghanistan, and internal and external factors. This situation is not only devastating the lives of local people but also affecting the peace of the entire country. But is there a solution to this problem? Yes, solutions exist, but for their implementation, the government must take steps with seriousness and consistency.

First and foremost, the government must strengthen the presence of security forces in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. It is crucial to monitor the activities of terrorists through advanced technology and intelligence networks. Permanent military or paramilitary check posts should be established in areas like Parachinar to immediately address the threat of terrorism.

The second important step is to engage with local communities and address their issues. To promote sectarian harmony, the government must facilitate negotiations between different communities. Platforms should be created where people can resolve their issues peacefully, and extremists should not be given the opportunity to exploit these conflicts.

The government should also pay special attention to educational reforms. The youth of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, who are often victims of poverty and unemployment, become easy targets for terrorist groups. By providing quality education and employment opportunities, they can be directed towards a better future.

Similarly, social and economic development projects should be introduced in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Investments should be made in infrastructure, health, and education sectors so that the local people can trust the government and also stand against extremism.

In the context of international relations, Pakistan must strengthen its ties with Afghanistan. Both countries need to adopt a joint strategy against terrorism, as a large part of this problem originates from across the border.

Finally, it must be ensured that government policies are consistent and not changed under political pressure or for personal gain. Serious actions should be taken to eliminate sectarianism, and extremists should be severely punished instead of being allowed to operate freely.

To end the hardships of the people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, a comprehensive and sustained policy is required. Only in this way can we make this region a place of peace and tranquility. We pray that the bloodshed on our land ends, and we move towards a peaceful and prosperous Pakistan.